William Bennett

Talking about political leadership, William Bennett recently said, “Sometimes you need Mother Teresa and sometimes you need Dirty Harry.” He was trying to get across the point that some situations call for soft, tender leadership, but at other times you might need to get tough.

It’s the same with leadership in the church. At times people need a soft touch. They need a leader who is sympathetic to their predicament and gentle with their words. However, there are times when a leader has to get tough. Wolves need to be chased away from the flock. Erring members need to be rebuked.

Sometimes a church leader needs to be Mother Teresa and Dirty Harry, all in the same day!

So which will you be? Soft or tough? It depends on the circumstances. Wise leaders will carefully exercise discernment before they choose their approach.